Amanze Chinonye
Niger has imposed a total and indefinite ban on the issuance of visas to United States citizens and barred their entry into the country, the Agence Nigérienne de Presse (ANP) reported on Thursday.
According to the state news agency, the Nigerien government said the measure is permanent and applies to all U.S. nationals, irrespective of the purpose of travel. A diplomatic source told ANP that the decision was taken in response to Washington’s move to remove Niger from its list of countries eligible for visa-to-enter status, a step Niamey considers discriminatory.
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Officials in the Nigerien capital described the action as being rooted in the principle of reciprocity, stressing that Niger would not accept unilateral restrictions imposed by foreign governments. The authorities said the ban reflects the country’s commitment to defending its national sovereignty and ensuring equal treatment in international relations.
The development follows recent changes in U.S. immigration and security policy under President Donald Trump, who added Niger to a list of high-risk countries subject to stricter entry controls. The list also includes Burkina Faso, Mali, South Sudan, Syria, and holders of travel documents issued by the Palestinian Authority.
Washington’s decision came after two members of the U.S. National Guard were shot near the White House, an incident U.S. authorities cited as part of broader security concerns that informed the expansion of travel restrictions.
Niger’s visa ban marks a further escalation in diplomatic tensions between Niamey and Washington, whose relations have deteriorated in recent years amid political changes in Niger and shifting security partnerships in the Sahel region.
Analysts warn that the measure could affect diplomatic engagement, humanitarian operations and international cooperation involving American citizens in the country.
As of Thursday, there was no immediate public response from the United States government to Niger’s decision.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
